With the New York Knicks preparing to take on the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night, they will be without youth center, Mitchell Robinson. After juggling the starting lineup for the past week, head coach David Fizdale will be without a significant piece in his game-plan.
Robinson landed on his right ankle awkwardly on Monday during practice. The determination was that the ankle sprain was severe enough to keep him out for at least one game, possibly more.
“I’m very disappointed,†Robinson said, via Newsday. “This is the first game of the season and I really wanted to play, but accidents happen. [It was on] an offensive rebound. I didn’t get it and I just came down wrong. I didn’t know how high I was.â€
The New York Knicks second-year big man was sporting a protective boot ahead of the mid-week opener. The indication of a boot could mean the injury is more than just a minor-sprain. For a player his size, any lower-body damage is significant and could force him out for quite some time.
“That’s a question you will have to ask the trainers,†he said. “If it was up to me I would, but you have to ask the trainers. It’s all the trainers’ decision. When they say I can come back is when I can come back.â€
The New York Knicks fill last vacant roster spot:
An empty roster spot was filled by Ivan Rabb, who signed a two-way deal with the Knicks. He has played with Fizdale previously, but averaged 5.7 points and 4.3 rebounds in 85 games with the Grizzlies last season. His familiarity with Fiz undoubtedly played a part in the Knicks signing him as a reserve option.
“Good kid. Hard worker. Really skilled big,†Fizdale said. “Rebounds the ball well. High IQ player. It’ll be good to get back with him and see if we can develop him.â€